Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Dental Medicine have developed a bioengineered chewing gum designed to combat squamous cell carcinoma, a prevalent and aggressive form of head and neck cancer. The gum, made from lablab beans, has demonstrated a significant reduction in key microbes associated with the disease, according to findings published in Scientific Reports.
Squamous cell carcinoma accounts for 90% of head and neck cancers. Current treatments often have limited effectiveness, prompting the development of this novel therapeutic approach. The bioengineered gum builds upon previous work involving a bean gum infused with a naturally antiviral protein called FRIL. In the recent study, scientists tested oral samples from patients for three specific microbes linked to cancer: human papillomavirus (HPV), Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), and Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn).
High-risk HPV types are strongly associated with mouth and throat cancers, accounting for 60% to 75% of cases. Infections with Pg and Fn have also been linked to worsened survival rates in patients with untreated recurrent or metastatic oral cancer. The new chewing gum successfully reduced HPV levels by 93% in saliva samples and 80% in oral rinse samples. The addition of protegrin, an antimicrobial peptide, to the gum nearly eliminated Pg and Fn levels after a single dose, without negatively impacting beneficial oral bacteria. This targeted approach contrasts with treatments like radiation therapy, which can reduce beneficial bacteria and promote the growth of disease-causing yeast.
Scientists believe the gum could serve as an adjunct therapy alongside existing treatments or as a preventive measure. Lead researcher Henry Daniell stated that the findings support advancing these therapies to clinical trials for use as adjuvants with current treatments or as prophylaxis to prevent infection and transmission. Previous research has also highlighted the importance of daily oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing, in reducing the risk of head and neck cancers. The American Cancer Society has noted that a significant portion of cancer cases and deaths in American adults could be prevented through lifestyle changes.